Page:Guatimala or the United Provinces of Central America in 1827-8.pdf/243

Rh a royal order of the 30th of March 1795, the Consulado was directed to encourage the navigation of this river, but for some unknown reason no steps were taken for that purpose. The total absence of an enterprising spirit, has prevented private individuals from following at their own risk this route with goods, so that with a few solitary exceptions, it remains unfrequented.

This river rises in the mountain of Xucanab, and in its way to the Amatique Gulf is joined by the Cahabon, from whence it becomes navigable for launches, or as they are called by the natives pit-pans; and flat canoes can ascend much higher than this junction. Juarros says that in former times, the merchandise imported from Spain to Guatimala, and the returning exports were conveyed by this river; and even so lately as 1793 the organ sent from Europe, for the church of San Domingo was transported by this route to the capital. From Guatimala to Pauchisquí the place of embarkation, is a journey of about six days, consisting of 50 leagues; the road is more level than the one to Gualan, cooler during the hot months, and if it were frequented, would soon be more convenient, both with regard to provisions and lodgings. From Panchisquí to the mouth of the river, which is close to the Port of Yzabal, is a navigation of not more than twenty-four hours in the descent, or four days in the